Missile Defense Agency Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Sea-Based X-Band (SBX) Radar Placement and Operation Adak, Alaska

Transcription

1 Missile Defense Agency Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Sea-Based X-Band (SBX) Radar Placement and Operation Adak, Alaska Environmental Assessment October 2005 DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited

2 GROUND-BASED MIDCOURSE DEFENSE SEA-BASED X-BAND RADAR (SBX) PLACEMENT AND OPERATION ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AGENCY: ACTION: Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Draft Finding of No Significant Impact BACKGROUND: MDA proposes to establish the necessary infrastructure to position, secure, and operate the Sea-Based X-Band Radar (SBX) at the Primary Support Base (PSB) at Adak Island, Alaska. Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the MDA is responsible for developing, testing, and deploying the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). The BMDS is designed to intercept threat missiles during all phases of their flight: boost, midcourse, and terminal. The Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) is an element of the BMDS; the purpose of the GMD element is to intercept and destroy long-range missiles in the ballistic (midcourse) phase of flight before their reentry into the Earth s atmosphere. GMD system testing, SBX operations, and the establishment of a PSB at Adak were analyzed in the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Extended Test Range Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The subsequent Record of Decision for the GMD Extended Test Range EIS selected Adak as the location to establish a PSB for the SBX. Due to inherent capabilities of the X-band radar (XBR) system, the SBX may also be used for related missions such as space surveillance. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION: The Proposed Action at or near Adak is to support, position/secure, and operate the SBX. The Proposed Action would include the following activities: A means of positioning the SBX in the waters of Kuluk Bay near Adak: Alternative 1 Permanent Mooring System Alternative 2 Loitering in Kuluk Bay Alternative 3 Temporary Anchoring Alternative 1 is the preferred alternative for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay. SBX operations while at Kuluk Bay Daily SBX activities Designation and enforcement of a security zone in U.S. territorial waters surrounding the SBX while moored, anchored, or loitering, which could include the installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX and/or operation of a security patrol boat Use of onshore PSB assets and infrastructure to support SBX operations Operation of one or more SBX support vessels 1

3 SBX loitering and operations while in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Daily SBX activities Designation and enforcement of a security zone surrounding the SBX while in U.S. territorial waters Use of onshore PSB assets and infrastructure to support SBX operations Operation of one or two SBX support vessels ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION No-Action The No-action Alternative that was previously analyzed in the GMD Extended Test Range EIS discussed the potential environmental impacts if the SBX were not built and there were not a need for a port facility in the Pacific Region to support the SBX. No environmental impacts were identified for the No-action Alternative. Alternative Sites Not Carried Forward for Analysis Construction and Use of a Pier The construction and use of a pier was initially considered for docking the SBX at Adak. Existing piers at Adak are currently not suitable for SBX requirements. The construction of a pier would incur substantially higher costs when compared to the installation of a permanent mooring system. The construction of a pier would not meet schedule demands for the overall development/deployment of the BMDS. The use of a pier for docking the SBX at Adak would also involve an increased potential for hull damage to the SBX during docking/undocking procedures. Furthermore, a pier would provide less tolerance to adverse weather, especially high wind and wave conditions that are very prevalent in Adak. Mooring in Finger Bay Finger Bay is a relatively deep and protected fjord located south of the main port at Adak. Previous analysis in the GMD Extended Test Range EIS considered Finger Bay as a potential mooring location for the SBX. However, detailed investigation has found that Finger Bay is not large enough to moor the SBX securely. Other Anchoring/Mooring Systems Pile Clusters A pile can be metal, reinforced concrete, or timber with various cross sections that is installed into the seabed by means of a piling hammer or vibrator. Driven pile clusters to create a mooring was not feasible because of the great water depth at the mooring site in Kuluk Bay. Suction Pile Anchor A suction pile anchor is a hollow steel pipe with a diameter that is much larger than that of a pile. The suction pile anchor is forced into the seabed by means of a pump connected to the top of the pipe, creating a pressure difference. The friction of the soil 2

4 along the suction anchor and the lateral soil resistance generates the holding capacity of the suction anchor. The geophysical surveys performed in Kuluk Bay indicated that the seafloor consists mainly of a layer of dense sand that would be too hard for the proper installation of suction pile anchors. In addition, suction pile anchors were removed from consideration because of the marine industry s lack of experience in their use. Suction pile anchors are a new technology, and published data on long-term performance is lacking. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS Methodology Thirteen areas of environmental consideration were evaluated to provide a context for understanding the potential effects of the Proposed Action and to provide a basis for assessing the severity of potential impacts. These areas included air quality, airspace, biological resources, cultural resources, geology, hazardous materials and waste, health and safety, infrastructure and transportation, land use, noise, socioeconomics, water resources, and environmental justice. Because the Proposed Action is narrowly focused, many of the resource areas are not expected to be affected sufficiently to warrant further discussion in this section or are already adequately analyzed in previous documents, including the GMD Extended Test Range EIS. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE PROPOSED ACTION Only those activities for which a potential environmental concern was determined are described within each resource summary. Air Quality Alternative 1 of the Proposed Action would include the installation of multiple (8 to 12) drag-embedment anchors and mooring legs. Although minor short-term impacts typically associated with construction activities may occur, no exceedances of the national or state ambient air quality standards would be anticipated. Alternatives 2 and 3 would require no permanent mooring installation. Operational emissions onboard the SBX would be limited to the exhaust produced by generators and to maintenance activities. For Alternative 1, the SBX would be moored over 2.5 miles from any sensitive receptor in the built-up area at Adak and over 3 miles from the Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. The prevailing wind direction is from the southwest and out to the Bering Sea. With the combination of wind speed, distance from receptors, and the prevailing wind direction from the southwest, it is anticipated that dispersion of emissions would limit any impact to air quality from the operation of the SBX in Kuluk Bay. Based upon air quality modeling for Alternative 1, it is expected that emissions would not exceed National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) or Alaska ambient air quality standards (AAQS) at Adak. For Alternatives 2 and 3, it is anticipated that NAAQS and AAQS levels would be exceeded for oxides of nitrogen. For all Kuluk Bay Alternatives, the SBX would be considered a mobile source; therefore, neither a Prevention of Significant Deterioration review nor a Title V permit would be required. 3

5 Airspace Operation of the SBX radar has a potential for interference with commercial aircraft out to a distance of 11.8 miles, and with military aircraft out to a distance of 2.1 miles. Surveillance radar onboard the SBX would be utilized to identify any aircraft approaching the airspace region of influence. This would include aircraft operating along the high and low altitude air routes as well as aircraft on approach to Adak airport and other aircraft that may be flying in the vicinity of Adak. In the event an aircraft enters the region of influence during test operations, XBR RF emissions would be limited until the aircraft is clear. SBX test operations would be coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration (Notice to Airmen) and the U.S. Coast Guard (Notice to Mariners), and would be scheduled if possible to occur during hours of minimal aircraft operations. A Memorandum of Agreement would establish the required scheduling and coordination process between the SBX operators and the Federal Aviation Administration. Biological Resources Alternative 1 of the Proposed Action would include positioning of the SBX in Kuluk Bay with a permanent mooring system. Installation of this system would include dragging an anchor assembly for each mooring leg along the seafloor in order for it to be buried up to 15 feet deep in the seafloor subsurface. Removal of obstructions on the seafloor that would hamper mooring installation would implement technologies to minimize marine habitat disruption. In addition, Alternative 1 could also include the installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX. Initial disturbance of the seafloor and its inhabitants during installation of the security boom/fence anchoring system is anticipated to be minimal, and lateral dragging of the anchor lines would be limited once installed. Alternative 2 of the Proposed Action for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay would include the SBX operating its engines to maintain its position in the bay by using its own thrusters. This alternative could produce cavitations on the thruster blades when operating, potentially producing intensive air bubble implosions underwater as well as intermittent noise while the vessel is at the PSB, which could startle marine wildlife in the immediate area. Under Alternative 3 for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay, the SBX would deploy one of its two anchors upon each arrival at the PSB, and it would then weigh anchor upon each departure from the PSB. Use of this alternative would result in repeated disturbance to the seafloor and its inhabitants. Operation of the SBX, under Alternative 1, 2, or 3, would include daily testing and calibration of the SBX radar system to monitor and improve radar performance. During these tests, the XBR would transmit a series of full-power radio frequency pulses for short time periods several times a day. The radar beam would normally be in motion, making it extremely unlikely that a bird would remain within the most intense area of the beam for any considerable length of time. The angular spread of the radar beam is small, which further reduces the probability of bird species remaining within this limited region of space, even if the beam were motionless. The SBX radar main beam would not be directed toward the ocean s surface. Since marine mammals would normally be found below the surface of the water, the radar beam would be safely above any surfacing mammals. The SBX vessel would incorporate marine pollution control devices such as keeping decks clear of debris, cleaning spills and residues, and engaging in spill and 4

6 pollution prevention practices in compliance with the Uniform National Discharge Standards provisions of the Clean Water Act. The potential for impacts to marine mammals due to an accidental release of diesel fuel is considered low. The relatively slow speed of the SBX platform would greatly reduce the potential for collision with a free-swimming marine mammal. The noise level from the SBX vessel at water level would be approximately 43 A-weighted decibels, which would be similar to or less than noise from other vessels frequenting the area. Overall, no adverse impacts to marine mammals are anticipated. The amount of light coming from the platform would be minimized to the extent practicable to reduce the potential for bird strikes. An onboard procedure for responding to bird strikes would be developed and implemented based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service guidance. Wastewater would be discharged above water level when at transit draft, and underwater when the vessel is at operational draft. Solid waste would be kept in covered containers until offloaded for onshore disposal. Installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX is not anticipated to restrict free movement of marine mammals in the area. Cultural Resources Although there are no previously identified cultural resources within the region of influence at the mooring site, a recent geophysical survey of Kuluk Bay resulted in the identification of World War II submarine netting as part the seafloor debris. The removal and/or disposal of submarine netting during the mooring installation would not impact the existing historical standing of the Adak National Historic Landmark and Cultural Landscape Historic District. Personnel would be informed of the sensitivity of cultural resources on Adak and the types of penalties that could be incurred if sites are damaged or destroyed. In addition, onshore PSB facilities would not be located in historic buildings, nor would they be near any historic resources. No impacts to cultural resources are anticipated during operation of the SBX. Health and Safety Activities involved with the positioning of the SBX in Kuluk Bay would occur in accordance with existing safety protocol/procedures and applicable state and federal requirements. No adverse effects to health and safety of personnel or the public are anticipated. During operations, the SBX systems would have the appropriate safety exclusion zones established before operation, and warning procedures to inform personnel when the system is in operation and transmitting a radio frequency (RF). Mechanical and software stops would be used to prevent the main beam from being directed in specified sectors where it may present a hazard. Ground-based, airborne, and ship-based systems have been evaluated for in-band, adjacent band, and harmonic band interference in a detailed RF interference survey. Results of the survey indicate emissions from the SBX may potentially degrade the overall system performance of inband airborne and ship-based radar systems. Based on analysis performed by the Joint Spectrum Center, the interference would most likely result in reduced range of the radars. For example, surface search radar with a range of 60 nautical miles would only be able to see targets at 50 nautical miles. This would apply to shipboard radars operating within 20 nautical miles of the SBX. This reduction in range of the radar would result in minor impacts to ships operating in the vicinity of Adak. 5

7 Socioeconomics While the SBX is at the Adak PSB, most personnel would reside on the SBX platform. A permanent cadre of approximately three dozen people would utilize permanent housing in direct support of SBX operations. An additional temporary contingent would utilize local hotels or guesthouses in Adak during SBX operations. Generally, by spending money in the local economy mainly via the normal procurement of goods and services, the additional SBX related personnel would represent a positive economic impact to the local community. The SBX is not expected to interfere with subsistence and commercial fishing areas, and would not have any impacts on current shipping schedules, ship-borne commerce, recreational boating, or general transit. In addition, SBX test operations would be coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration and would be scheduled, if possible, to occur during hours of minimal aircraft operations. There would be no reduction in the amount of available airspace, almost no disruption of existing aircraft operation, and no resultant economic impacts are expected to the Adak Airfield or any air traffic in the area. Water Resources Implementation of Alternative 1, 2, or 3 of the Proposed Action would result in the SBX being located in Kuluk Bay. The limited increase in the number of personnel at Adak would not affect the water supply or wastewater systems at Adak. Potable water would be produced onboard the SBX by a set of three Reverse Osmosis systems. The existing water supply at Adak would not be affected by the consumption onboard the SBX. An onboard marine sanitation device would be used to treat the wastewater produced onboard the SBX prior to discharge while moored in Kuluk Bay. The SBX would operate seawater cooling pumps to cool mechanical equipment and radar systems on the SBX. The SBX mooring site would have high flushing conditions, deep water, and high wind velocities. Based on these factors at the SBX mooring site in Kuluk Bay, thermal effects from cooling water are expected to be minimal. Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts are those that result when impacts of an action are combined with the impacts of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions at a location. Cumulative impacts were considered for each resource area and each alternative for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay, as well as for operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound, and support activities on Adak. No other projects in the region of influence have been identified that would have the potential for incremental, additive cumulative impacts to the air quality, airspace, biological resources, cultural resources, health and safety, socioeconomics, or water resources in the region of influence. CONCLUSION: The environmental analysis shows that no significant impacts would occur from the Proposed Action to support, position/secure, and operate the SBX at or near Adak, Alaska. Preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement, therefore, is not required. A follow-up action list will be developed and completed by the Executing Agent to ensure compliance with the actions described in the EA. 6

8 While MDA plans to implement the preferred alternative of mooring the SBX in Kuluk Bay, the funding to install the mooring is currently not available. Therefore, the SBX would primarily loiter and operate in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound. The SBX may also loiter and operate in Kuluk Bay. DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF WRITTEN COMMENTS: TBD, 2005 POINT OF CONTACT: Submit written comments or requests for a copy of the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense Sea-Based X-Band Radar Placement and Operation Adak, Alaska Environmental Assessment to: U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Attention: SMDC-EN-V (Mr. David Hasley) Post Office Box 1500 Huntsville, AL

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10 GROUND-BASED MIDCOURSE DEFENSE SEA-BASED X-BAND RADAR (SBX) PLACEMENT AND OPERATION ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AGENCY: ACTION: Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Finding of No Significant Impact APPROVED: MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY DATE: CHRIS T. ANZALONE Brigadier General, USAF Deputy for Test and Assessment 9

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12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

13 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Introduction Within the Department of Defense, the Missile Defense Agency is responsible for developing, testing, and deploying the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). The BMDS is a multi layered system designed to intercept threat missiles during all phases of their flight: boost, midcourse, and terminal. The Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) is an element of the BMDS; the purpose of the GMD element is to intercept and destroy long-range missiles in the ballistic (midcourse) phase of flight before their reentry into the Earth s atmosphere. GMD system testing, Sea-Based X-Band Radar (SBX) operations, and the establishment of a Primary Support Base (PSB) at Adak, Alaska were analyzed in the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Extended Test Range Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The subsequent Record of Decision for the GMD Extended Test Range EIS selected Adak as the location to establish a PSB for the SBX. Due to inherent capabilities of the X-band radar (XBR) system, the SBX may also be used for related missions such as space surveillance. Proposed Action The Proposed Action at Adak, Kuluk Bay, the Bering Sea, or Sitkin Sound is to support, position/secure, and operate the SBX. The Proposed Action would include the following activities: A means of positioning the SBX in the waters of Kuluk Bay near Adak: Alternative 1 Permanent Mooring System Alternative 2 Loitering in Kuluk Bay Alternative 3 Temporary Anchoring Alternative 1 is the preferred alternative for positioning in Kuluk Bay. SBX operations while at Kuluk Bay: Daily SBX activities Designation and enforcement of a security zone in U.S. territorial waters surrounding the SBX, while moored, anchored, or loitering, which could include the installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX and/or operation of a security patrol boat Use of onshore PSB assets and infrastructure to support SBX operations Operation of one or more SBX support vessels SBX loitering and operations while in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Daily SBX activities Designation and enforcement of a security zone in U.S. territorial waters surrounding the SBX Use of onshore PSB assets and infrastructure to support SBX operations Operation of one or two SBX support vessels GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA es-1

14 No-Action Alternative The No-action Alternative was previously analyzed in the GMD Extended Test Range EIS. The GMD Extended Test Range EIS analyzed the establishment of a PSB for the SBX at Adak with Finger Bay as the potential mooring location. Following the Record of Decision that selected Adak as a PSB, Kuluk Bay was identified as the potential mooring location. Under the Noaction Alternative, the SBX would not be built and put into operation and interceptor and target launch scenarios would not require the SBX for testing or Limited Defensive Operations (LDO) under operationally realistic conditions. Consequently, there were no impacts identified for the No-action Alternative at Adak. This conclusion is incorporated by reference into this Environmental Assessment. Methodology Thirteen areas of environmental consideration were evaluated to provide a context for understanding the potential effects of the Proposed Action and to provide a basis for assessing the severity of potential impacts. These areas included air quality, airspace, biological resources, cultural resources, geology, hazardous materials and waste, health and safety, infrastructure and transportation, land use, noise, socioeconomics, water resources, and environmental justice. Because the Proposed Action is narrowly focused, many of the resource areas are not expected to be affected sufficiently to warrant further discussion in this section or are already adequately analyzed in previous documents, including the GMD Extended Test Range EIS and the National Missile Defense Deployment Final EIS. The following paragraph summarizes the resource areas that were eliminated from further analysis. Geology Alternative 1 of the Proposed Action for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay would include the installation of a permanent mooring system. While the permanent mooring system would include multiple (8 to 12) drag embedment-type anchors and security boom/fence would include multiple anchors, installation is not expected to create an adverse effect to geology or seafloor sediments. Infrastructure and Transportation The few additional personnel would not affect transportation. Shipping of project related materials, as well as transportation of personnel, would utilize existing air and marine shipping routes. While cargo space is limited for transportation to and from Adak, planning would be implemented to ensure cargo space is available. Hazardous Materials and Waste Any hazardous wastes generated onboard the SBX would be disposed of onshore according to Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations. No upgrades or modifications of existing onshore treatment/disposal systems would be required to support the SBX program. Land Use Land use would be minimal since the majority of the Proposed Action would occur on the water in Kuluk Bay. A tidelands lease would be obtained for the mooring location and all activities would be in accordance with an approved Alaska Coastal Consistency Determination. Land utilization in surrounding areas would not change. Noise No sensitive noise receptors would be disturbed by the proposed mooring installation, and noise levels during mooring installation and SBX operations would not exceed Occupational Safety and Health Administration workplace standards. Environmental Justice An environmental justice impact would be a long-term health, environmental, cultural, or economic impact that has a disproportionately high and adverse effect on a nearby minority or low-income population. No adverse long-term impacts have been identified; as such, there would be no disproportionately es-2 GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA

15 high and adverse health or environmental effects on the minority or low-income populations that may be present in the vicinity of the Proposed Action. Environmental Consequences of the Proposed Action Only those activities for which a potential environmental concern was determined are described within each resource summary. Air Quality Alternative 1 of the Proposed Action would include the installation of multiple (8 to 12) dragembedment anchors and mooring legs. Although minor short-term impacts typically associated with construction activities may occur, no exceedances of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) or State Ambient Air Quality Standards (AAQS) would be anticipated. Alternatives 2 and 3 would require no permanent mooring installation. Loitering and operation of the SBX in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound would require no permanent mooring installation similar to those described for Alternatives 2 and 3. Operational emissions onboard the SBX would be limited to the exhaust produced by generators and to maintenance activities. For Alternative 1 the SBX would be moored over 2.5 miles from any sensitive receptor in the built-up area at Adak and over 3 miles from the Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. The prevailing wind direction is from the southwest and out to the Bering Sea. Based upon air quality modeling for Alternative 1, it is expected that emissions would not exceed NAAQS or Alaska AAQS at Adak. For Alternatives 2 and 3, it is anticipated that NAAQS and AAQS levels would be exceeded for oxides of nitrogen. For all Kuluk Bay alternatives, based on the likely scenario that the SBX would be underway several times per year to support test events and operational readiness, the SBX would be considered a mobile source; therefore, neither a Prevention of Significant Deterioration review nor a Title V permit would be required. During loitering and operation of the SBX in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound, the hours of generator operation would vary. However, due to average annual wind speeds of 15.6 to 23.3 knots in the open areas of the Bering Sea, emissions would be dispersed with limited impact to air quality. Airspace Positioning of the SBX in Kuluk Bay would have no impacts on airspace. Operation of the SBX radar has a potential for interference with commercial aircraft out to a distance of 11.8 miles, and with military aircraft out to a distance of 2.1 miles. Surveillance radar onboard the SBX would be utilized to identify any aircraft approaching the airspace region of influence. This would include aircraft operating along the high and low altitude air routes as well as aircraft on approach to Adak airport and other aircraft that may be flying in the vicinity of Adak. In the event an aircraft enters the region of influence, XBR RF emissions would be limited until the aircraft is clear. Potential impacts during loitering and operation of the SBX in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound would be similar to those described above for operations in Kuluk Bay. However, for Sitkin Sound, the high energy RF transmission area notice that would be published on the appropriate aeronautical charts would include a larger area notifying aircraft of a general RF transmission area for Sitkin Sound. SBX test operations would be coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Coast Guard (Notice to Airmen) and the Local Notice to Mariners and would be scheduled if GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA es-3

16 possible to occur during hours of minimal aircraft operations. A Memorandum of Agreement would establish the required scheduling and coordination process between the SBX operators and the Federal Aviation Administration. Biological Resources Alternative 1 of the Proposed Action would include positioning of the SBX in Kuluk Bay with a permanent mooring system. Installation of this system would include dragging an anchor assembly for each mooring leg along the seafloor in order for it to be buried up to 15 feet deep in the seafloor subsurface. Removal of obstructions on the seafloor that would hamper mooring installation would implement technologies to minimize marine habitat disruption. In addition, Alternative 1 could also include the installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX. Initial disturbance of the seafloor and its inhabitants during installation of the security boom/fence anchoring system is anticipated to be minimal, and lateral dragging of the anchor lines would be limited once installed. Alternative 2 of the Proposed Action for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay would include the SBX operating its engines to maintain its position in the bay by using its own thrusters. This alternative could produce cavitations on the thruster blades when operating, potentially producing intensive air bubble implosions underwater as well as intermittent noise while the vessel is at the PSB, which could startle marine wildlife in the immediate area. Under Alternative 3 for positioning the SBX in Kuluk Bay, the SBX would deploy one of its two anchors upon each arrival at the PSB, and it would then weigh anchor upon each departure from the PSB. Use of this alternative would result in repeated disturbance to the seafloor and its inhabitants. Loitering of the SBX in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound would not include the installation of embedment-type anchors and mooring legs or the use of the SBX anchors due to the prohibitive water depths. Operation of the SBX, under Alternative 1, 2, or 3, would include daily testing and calibration of the SBX radar system to monitor and improve radar performance. During these tests, the XBR would transmit a series of full-power radio frequency pulses for short time periods several times a day. The radar beam would normally be in motion, making it extremely unlikely that a bird would remain within the most intense area of the beam for any considerable length of time. The angular spread of the radar beam is small, which further reduces the probability of bird species remaining within this limited region of space, even if the beam were motionless. The SBX radar main beam would not be directed toward the ocean s surface. Since marine mammals would normally be found below the surface of the water, the radar beam would be safely above any surfacing mammals. Impacts of daily testing and calibration of the SBX s radar system would be the same as those described above for loitering in Kuluk Bay. No impacts are anticipated to fish or marine mammals in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound as a result of RF emissions. The SBX vessel would incorporate marine pollution control devices such as keeping decks clear of debris, cleaning spills and residues, and engaging in spill and pollution prevention practices in compliance with the Uniform National Discharge Standards provisions of the Clean Water Act. The potential for impacts to marine mammals due to an accidental release of diesel fuel is considered low. The relatively slow speed of the SBX platform would greatly reduce the potential for collision with a free-swimming marine mammal. The noise level from the SBX vessel at water level would be approximately 43 A-weighted decibels, which would be similar to or less than noise from other vessels frequenting the area. Overall, no adverse impacts to marine mammals are anticipated. The amount of light coming from the platform would be minimized to the extent practicable to reduce the potential for bird strikes. An onboard procedure for responding to bird strikes would be developed and implemented based on U.S. es-4 GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA

17 Fish and Wildlife Service guidance. Points of contact with the SBX operator and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as type and frequency of reports would be established. Wastewater would be discharged above water level when at transit draft, but underwater when the vessel is at operational draft. Solid waste would be kept in covered containers until offloaded for onshore disposal. Installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX is not anticipated to restrict free movement of marine mammals in the area. Cultural Resources Although there are no previously identified cultural resources within the region of influence at the mooring site, a recent geophysical survey of Kuluk Bay resulted in the identification of World War II submarine netting as part the seafloor debris. The removal and/or disposal of submarine netting during the mooring installation would not impact the existing historical standing of the Adak National Historic Landmark and Cultural Landscape Historic District. Loitering of the SBX in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound would not include the installation of multiple (8 to 12) embedment-type anchors and mooring legs or the utilization of the SBX anchors due to the prohibitive depths of the ocean in the Bering Sea and Sitkin Sound. As such, impacts to cultural resources would be avoided. Personnel would be informed of the sensitivity of cultural resources on Adak and the types of penalties that could be incurred if sites are damaged or destroyed. In addition, onshore PSB facilities would not be located in historic buildings, nor would they be near any historic resources. No impacts to cultural resources are anticipated during operation of the SBX. Health and Safety Activities involved with the positioning of the SBX in Kuluk Bay, the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound would occur in accordance with existing safety protocol/procedures and applicable state and federal requirements. No adverse effects to health and safety of personnel or the public are anticipated. During operations, the SBX systems would have the appropriate safety exclusion zones established before operation, and warning procedures to inform personnel when the system is in operation and transmitting a radio frequency (RF). Mechanical and software stops would be used to prevent the main beam from being directed in specified sectors where it may present a hazard. Ground-based, airborne, and ship-based systems have been evaluated for in-band, adjacent band, and harmonic band interference in a detailed RF interference survey. Results of the survey indicate emissions from the SBX may potentially degrade the overall system performance of in-band airborne and ship-based radar systems. Based on analysis performed by the Joint Spectrum Center, the interference would most likely result in reduced range of the radars. For example, surface search radar with a range of 60 nautical miles would only be able to see targets at 50 nautical miles. This would apply to shipboard radars operating within 20 nautical miles of the SBX. This reduction in range of the radar would result in minor impacts to ships operating in the vicinity of Adak, the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound. Socioeconomics While the SBX is at the Adak PSB, most personnel would reside on the SBX platform. A permanent cadre of approximately three dozen people would utilize permanent housing on Adak GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA es-5

18 in direct support of SBX operations. An additional temporary contingent of approximately one dozen personnel would utilize local hotels or guesthouses in Adak during SBX operations. These personnel would be a mixture of military, government civilian, and contractors. Generally, by spending money in the local economy mainly via the normal procurement of goods and services, the additional SBX related personnel would represent a positive economic impact to the local community for the duration of time spent at the mooring location throughout the year. The result would represent a small positive economic impact to the Adak economy. The proposed project would not cause any population growth. Coordination with marine traffic would be adequately coordinated to prevent any conflicts with subsistence and commercial fishing areas, and to prevent any impacts on current shipping schedules, ship-borne commerce, recreational boating, or general transit. In addition, SBX operations would be coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration and would be scheduled, if possible, to occur during hours of minimal aircraft operations. There would be no reduction in the amount of available airspace, almost no disruption of existing aircraft operation, and no resultant economic impacts are expected to the Adak Airfield or any air traffic in the area. Water Resources Implementation of Alternative 1, 2, or 3 of the Proposed Action would result in the SBX being located in Kuluk Bay. The limited increase in the number of personnel at Adak would not affect the water supply or wastewater systems at Adak. Potable water would be produced onboard the SBX by a set of three Reverse Osmosis systems. The existing water supply at Adak would not be affected by the consumption onboard the SBX. An onboard marine sanitation device would be used to treat the wastewater produced onboard the SBX prior to discharge while moored in Kuluk Bay. The wastewater would undergo maceration and disinfection (chlorination) treatments before being discharged. It is anticipated that the largest discharge for the SBX would come from seawater cooling overboard discharge. The SBX would operate seawater cooling pumps that would be used to cool mechanical equipment and radar systems on the SBX. The SBX mooring site in Kuluk Bay would have high flushing conditions, deep water, and high wind velocities. Based on these factors at the SBX mooring site in Kuluk Bay, thermal effects from cooling water are expected to be minimal. The SBX seawater cooling discharge would also contain some elevated levels of heavy metals, although the quantity would be less than on typical armed forces vessels. Since specific performance standards and potential pollution control device requirements have not been determined, specific requirements for the SBX, if any, can not be developed at this time. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Navy are still in the process of evaluating the Nature of Discharge Reports. Continued U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Navy analysis will include determining appropriate marine pollution control devices and establishing performance standards for each discharge. The potential for impacts due to sewage, oily water, and seawater cooling discharge associated with the loitering and operation of the SBX in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound would be similar but less than that described for Kuluk Bay due to the deeper water and open ocean environment. es-6 GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA

19 Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts are those that result when impacts of an action are combined with the impacts of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions at a location. Cumulative impacts were considered for each resource area at each site. No other projects in the region of influence have been identified that when added to the Proposed Action of positioning in Kuluk Bay (any alternative), or operating in Sitkin Sound or the Bering Sea, would have the potential for incremental, additive cumulative impacts to the air quality, airspace, biological resources, cultural resources, health and safety, socioeconomics, or water resources in the region of influence. GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA es-7

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21 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

22 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS AAQS ambient air quality standards ABS American Bureau of Shipping AHTS Anchor Handling Tug Supply ANILCA Alaska National Interest Land Conservation Act BMDS Ballistic Missile Defense System CFR Code of Federal Regulations dba A-weighted decibels DoD Department of Defense EA Environmental Assessment EED electroexplosive devices EMR electromagnetic radiation EIS Environmental Impact Statement ºF Fahrenheit degrees FAA Federal Aviation Administration FL flight level GBR Ground Based Radar GMD Ground-Based Midcourse Defense ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization IDT In-flight Interceptor Communication System Data Terminal IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IFR instrument flight rules kw kilowatt LDO Limited Defensive Operations MDA Missile Defense Agency MOA Memorandum of Agreement μg/kg micrograms per kilogram μg/m 3 micrograms per cubic meter MHz megahertz MW megawatt mw/cm 2 milliwatts per square centimeter NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards NEPA National Environmental Policy Act OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration PCB polychlorinated biphenyl GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA ac-1

23 PM-2.5 PM-10 ppm PSB RBAL RF RFI RO ROI SBX SHPO UNICOM USCG USEPA USFWS VFR V/m W XBR particulate matter with a diameter less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers particulate matter with a diameter less than or equal to 10 micrometers parts per million Primary Support Base risk-based action level radio frequency radio frequency interference Reverse Osmosis region of influence Sea-Based X-Band Radar State Historic Preservation Office universal communication a radio service that provides for air-ground communications primarily between general aviation aircraft and airport facilities United States Coast Guard United States Environmental Protection Agency United States Fish and Wildlife Service visual flight rules volts per meter watt(s) X-band radar ac-2 GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA

24 CONTENTS

25 CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... es-1 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS... ac PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION Introduction Background Ballistic Missile Defense System Sea-Based X-Band Radar Adak Island, Alaska Purpose and Need Decision(s) To Be Made Scope of the Environmental Assessment Related Environmental Documentation DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES Proposed Action SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operations in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Alternatives Eliminated from Further Consideration AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT Air Quality Airspace Biological Resources Cultural Resources Health and Safety Socioeconomics Water Resources ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES Air Quality SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Airspace SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Biological Resources SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Cultural Resources GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA i

26 4.4.1 SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Health and Safety SBX Positioning In Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Socioeconomics SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Water Resources SBX Positioning in Kuluk Bay Operation in Kuluk Bay Loitering and Operation in the Bering Sea or Sitkin Sound Cumulative Impacts Adverse Environmental Effects That Cannot Be Avoided Conflicts with Federal, State, and Local Land Use Plans, Policies, and Controls for the Area Concerned Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential Irreversible or Irretrievable Commitment of Resources Relationship Between Short-Term Use of the Human Environment and the Maintenance and Enhancement of Long-Term Productivity Natural or Depletable Resource Requirements and Conservation Potential Federal Actions To Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations (Executive Order 12898) Federal Actions To Address Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks (Executive Order 13045, as Amended by Executive Order 13229) REFERENCES LIST OF PREPARERS AGENCIES AND INDIVIDUALS CONTACTED APPENDICES A B C D DISTRIBUTION LIST CORRESPONDENCE DRAFT AIRSPACE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT ADAK ISLAND MARINE ROV AND CORING INVESTIGATION ii GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA

27 FIGURES 1-1 Adak Island General Location SBX Conceptual Drawing SBX Mooring Study Area and Proposed Mooring Site, Adak, Alaska SBX Platform Mooring Airspace and the SBX Region of Influence, Adak, Alaska Adak Airspace and SBX Interference Areas TABLES 2-1 Radio Frequency Interference Distances for SBX Alaska Ambient Air Quality Standards Enroute Airways and Jet Routes Estimated SBX Generator Emissions GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA iii

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29 1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION

30 1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION 1.1 INTRODUCTION The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) proposes to establish the necessary infrastructure to position, secure, and operate the Sea-Based X-Band Radar (SBX) at the Primary Support Base (PSB) at Adak Island, Alaska (figure 1-1). The Proposed Action would include the following: A means of positioning the SBX in the vicinity of Adak, in the waters of Kuluk Bay, the Bering Sea, or Sitkin Sound SBX operations while at the PSB Designation and enforcement of a security zone in U.S. territorial waters surrounding the SBX, which could include the installation and use of a floating security boom/fence around the SBX and/or operation of a security patrol boat while moored, anchored, or loitering Use of onshore PSB assets and infrastructure to support SBX operations Operation of one or more SBX support vessels The MDA has determined that an Environmental Assessment (EA) is required to assess the potential environmental impacts of this Proposed Action. This EA has been prepared in accordance with the following guidelines: The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 The Council on Environmental Quality regulations implementing NEPA (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] Parts ) Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction , Environmental Planning and Analysis Applicable service environmental regulations that implement these laws and regulations, and direct DoD officials to consider environmental consequences when authorizing and approving federal actions. Figure 1-1: Adak Island General Location GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA 1-1

31 1.2 BACKGROUND BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM Within the DoD, the MDA is responsible for developing, testing, and deploying the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). The BMDS is designed to intercept threat missiles during all phases of their flight: boost, midcourse, and terminal. The Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) is an element of the BMDS; the purpose of the GMD element is to intercept and destroy long-range missiles in the ballistic (midcourse) phase of flight before their reentry into the Earth s atmosphere. GMD system testing, SBX operations, and the establishment of a PSB at Adak, were analyzed in the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Extended Test Range Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) (Missile Defense Agency, 2003). The subsequent Record of Decision for the GMD Extended Test Range EIS selected Adak as the location to establish a PSB for the SBX. Due to inherent capabilities of the X-band radar (XBR) system, the SBX may also be used for related missions such as space surveillance SEA-BASED X-BAND RADAR The mission of the SBX, a component of the BMDS, is two-fold. It will support BMDS testing in order to improve the system. In addition, the SBX would serve as a component of the BMDS Limited Defensive Operations (LDO). The SBX consists of a converted semi-submersible mobile oil-drilling platform on which an XBR and other GMD system components have been mounted (figure 1-2). The self-propelled vessel is 238 feet wide and 398 feet long. At transit draft, the SBX will have a height of approximately 250 feet. When conducting mission activities, the SBX vessel would ballast down to operational draft and position itself in Kuluk Bay, the Bering Sea, or Sitkin Sound. At operational draft, the SBX would have a height of approximately 200 feet above the water s surface. The main deck of the SBX would house living quarters, workspaces, storage, power generation, bridge and control rooms, and the floor space and infrastructure necessary to support the 2,000-ton XBR antenna array; command, control, and communications suites; and an Inflight Interceptor Communication System Data Terminal (IDT). Once Figure 1-2: SBX Conceptual Drawing 1-2 GMD SBX Placement and Operation at Adak, Alaska EA integrated into the BMDS, the SBX would be able to track, discriminate, and assess incoming missiles. The SBX would greatly increase the MDA s ability to conduct more strenuous and operationally realistic testing of the BMDS, and enhance the BMDS s ability to intercept incoming missiles. Because of its mobility, the SBX can be repositioned to provide operational forward-based coverage or relocated for optimum coverage of various scenarios in the BMDS test program.